This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.
The FIFA World Cup generates more betting volume worldwide than any other sporting event, and sportsbooks approach the tournament differently than regular league play. Odds open months in advance, futures markets evolve throughout the group stage, and every match features hundreds of wagering options ranging from goal scorers to cards and team advancement.
Because matches run daily and feature unfamiliar international teams, the best World Cup betting apps prioritize early odds posting, deep soccer markets, and easy navigation across multiple games.
Best FIFA World Cup Sportsbook Promos for February 2026
Below are the best sportsbooks for betting the 2026 World Cup based on market depth, pricing, and tournament-specific features.
| Sportsbook | Welcome Bonus |
| bet365 | Bet $5, Get $150 in bonus bets win or lose with promo code FOX365 |
| BetMGM | Up to $1,500 in bonus bets back if your first bet loses with promo code FOXSPORTS |
| FanDuel | Bet $5, Get $100 in bonus bets if your first bet wins |
| DraftKings | Bet $5, Get $200 in bonus bets instantly if your first bet wins |
| Fanatics | Get Up to $1,000 in Bet Insurance FanCash |
| Caesars | First Bet Matched up to $250 as a Bonus Bet, Win or Lose, with Code ‘FOX250BM’ |
Top FIFA World Cup Betting Sites in the US
Not all sportsbooks handle international soccer the same way. The World Cup runs nonstop for nearly a month, with multiple matches daily and betting markets expanding as teams advance through the tournament.
The best World Cup betting apps consistently post early futures odds, offer deep player prop menus, and make it easy to navigate group standings, knockout brackets, and live matches. Below is a closer look at how each major sportsbook performs during the tournament.
bet365: Best Overall FIFA World Cup Betting Site
- Known For: Deep soccer markets & early World Cup odds
- App Store Rating: 4.8 ⭐️
- Welcome Offer: Bet $5, Get $150 in bonus bets (win or lose) with code FOX365
- Available States: AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, NJ, NC, OH, TN, VA.
bet365 is widely regarded as the premier sportsbook for international soccer, and the FIFA World Cup is where it typically separates itself from competitors. The platform posts futures markets earlier than most U.S. books and maintains deep pricing across group winners, advancement odds, and tournament awards well before kickoff.
Once matches begin, bet365 offers one of the most expansive betting menus available. In addition to standard markets like match result and totals, bettors can access detailed player props including shots, assists, cards, and alternate lines. Live betting is especially strong, with fast odds updates and in-play markets that remain active throughout the match.
For bettors planning to wager consistently throughout the tournament, from the group stage to the final, bet365 delivers the most complete World Cup betting experience.
BetMGM: Best FIFA World Cup Sportsbook Welcome Bonus
- Known For: Tournament promos & parlay features
- App Store Rating: 4.8 ⭐️
- Welcome Offer: Up to $1,500 in bonus bets back if your first bet loses with code FOXSPORTS
- Available States: AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MO, MS, NV, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY
BetMGM focuses heavily on major global events, and the World Cup is typically one of its most promotional periods. Bettors can expect odds boosts on marquee matches, parlay insurance offers, and tournament specials throughout the competition.
The sportsbook also organizes matches clearly by group and knockout stage, which helps bettors follow standings and wager across multiple games each day.
Its welcome bonus, up to $1,500 in bonus bets back if your first bet loses with code FOXSPORTS, is among the highest-value and simplest welcome bonuses on the market.
FanDuel: Best FIFA World Cup Mobile Betting App Interface
- Known For: Easy-to-use app & clean interface
- App Store Rating: 4.8 ⭐️
- Welcome Offer: Bet $5, Get $100 in bonus bets if your first bet wins
- Available States: AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY
FanDuel is one of the simplest sportsbooks to navigate during a busy tournament schedule. With multiple World Cup matches taking place daily, the app organizes games clearly by date and kickoff time, making it easy to quickly locate markets without digging through menus.
The interface is especially helpful for casual bettors or anyone wagering across several matches in a single day. Key markets like match result, totals, and both-teams-to-score are easy to access, and bet slips remain straightforward even when building parlays.
FanDuel is best suited for bettors who prioritize speed and ease of use over deep statistical markets.
DraftKings: Best World Cup Betting Promos for Existing Users
- Known For: Frequent promos & betting specials
- App Store Rating: 4.8 ⭐️
- Welcome Offer: Bet $5, Get $200 in bonus bets instantly if your first bet wins
- Available States: AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY
DraftKings tends to run more recurring promotions during major tournaments than most sportsbooks. Throughout the World Cup, bettors can expect rotating odds boosts, featured match specials, and player-focused promos tied to high-profile teams and stars.
The sportsbook also integrates these promos directly into the betting pages, making them easy to find before kickoff. Rather than navigating a promotions tab, many specials appear alongside the match markets themselves.
For bettors looking to place wagers daily and take advantage of new offers throughout the tournament, DraftKings is typically one of the most active sportsbooks.
Fanatics Sportsbook: Most Unique World Cup Betting Rewards Ecosystem
- Known For: FanCash rewards & ongoing promos
- App Store Rating: 4.7 ⭐️
- Welcome Offer: Up to $1,000 in FanCash (10 x $100 Bet Match Tokens)
- Available States: AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY
Fanatics Sportsbook stands out during the World Cup by centering its promotions around ongoing rewards rather than one-time bonuses. Many offers return value in FanCash, which can accumulate as bettors place wagers across the group stage and knockout rounds instead of requiring a single qualifying bet.
Because matches occur daily throughout the tournament, this structure works well for bettors planning to follow multiple teams and place smaller wagers over time. Featured matches and popular teams often receive rotating specials that provide steady rewards rather than relying solely on large pre-tournament promos.
The betting menu is more streamlined than larger sportsbooks, but Fanatics appeals to players who want consistent value throughout the competition and a simple way to earn rewards while betting regularly.
theScore Bet: Best New World Cup Betting Site
- Known For: Media-integrated betting experience
- App Store Rating: 4.7 ⭐️
- Welcome Offer: Bet $10, Get $100 If Your Bet Wins
- Available States: AZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MO, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV
theScore Bet is one of the newest major sportsbooks in the U.S. market after transitioning from ESPN BET in late 2025. The app focuses on blending sports media and betting into one experience, allowing users to move from scores and stats directly into wagers without switching platforms.
During global tournaments like the World Cup, this format works especially well for casual fans following multiple matches each day. Users can track lineups, standings, and match updates in real time and immediately place bets as information changes.
While it does not offer the deepest betting menu compared to larger sportsbooks, theScore Bet appeals to bettors who want a modern interface and a simple way to follow the tournament and wager in the same environment.
Caesars Sportsbook: Best World Cup Betting Site for Travel Rewards
- Known For: Caesars Rewards integration
- App Store Rating: 4.7 ⭐️
- Welcome Offer: First Bet Matched up to $250 as a Bonus Bet, Win or Lose, with code FOX250BM
- Available States: AZ, CO, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MS, NJ, NV, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY
Caesars Sportsbook connects wagering to real-world rewards through its Caesars Rewards program. Bets placed during the World Cup can contribute toward hotel stays, dining credits, and entertainment experiences across Caesars properties.
The app offers standard match markets, parlays, and tournament futures throughout the competition. While the market depth is not as extensive as soccer-focused sportsbooks, the ability to earn redeemable perks alongside wagers appeals to bettors who value long-term benefits beyond bonus bets.
Caesars is best suited for players who want their betting activity to translate into travel and entertainment rewards rather than app-only credits.
World Cup Betting Markets Explained
The World Cup offers more betting variety than most sports because matches are low-scoring and played in stages: group play, knockout rounds, and the final. Sportsbooks price matches across regulation time (90 minutes + stoppage time), extra time, and penalties, so understanding common bet types helps avoid confusion before wagering.
Below are the most common World Cup betting markets you will see at sportsbooks.
Match Result (3-Way Moneyline)
This is the most common soccer wager and also the one that causes the most mistakes. You are betting the outcome after regulation only, which is 90 minutes plus stoppage time. Extra time and penalties do not count.
Because draws are common in international soccer, the odds are usually higher than typical American moneylines. Favorites often sit around -120 to +120 instead of heavy negative odds.
This market is best for group-stage matches, where teams may play conservatively and accept a draw. In knockout rounds, many bettors prefer the To Advance market instead to avoid losing on a late equalizer.
Draw No Bet
Draw No Bet removes the tie outcome. If the match finishes level after 90 minutes, your wager is refunded.
The tradeoff is reduced payout. A team that is +140 on the match result might be closer to +100 on Draw No Bet because the sportsbook removes the draw risk.
This market is popular when betting a slight favorite in group stage matches, especially when both teams benefit from avoiding a loss.
To Advance
This wager applies mostly to knockout matches. You are betting on which team moves on to the next round, regardless of how it happens.
Regulation, extra time, and penalties all count. Because of this, odds are lower than the match result since the draw outcome is removed
Many experienced bettors use To Advance instead of match result in elimination games because soccer knockout matches frequently go beyond 90 minutes.
Over/Under Total Goals
You are betting whether the combined goals scored by both teams exceed or fall below a set line. The most common total is 2.5 goals.
Totals tend to be lower in international tournaments than club soccer due to cautious tactics and unfamiliar opponents. A defensive matchup between strong teams might close at 1.5 or 2.0 instead of the typical 2.5.
Weather, tournament pressure, and advancement scenarios often matter more than team talent when betting totals late in the group stage.
Both Teams To Score (BTTS)
This wager focuses only on whether each team scores at least once. The final score does not matter as long as both sides score.
BTTS is especially useful when you expect attacking play but cannot confidently pick a winner. It is often paired with Over 2.5 goals in same game parlays since the outcomes are correlated.
Defensive teams and elimination matches tend to produce lower BTTS rates than early group stage matches.
Asian Handicap
Asian Handicap is a spread that removes the draw by adjusting the score before the match begins.
- -0.5 line means the team must win.
- +0.5 line means the team wins if they draw or win.
More advanced versions like -0.25 or +0.75 split your bet across two outcomes, reducing risk and variance. This market is widely used by experienced soccer bettors because it often provides better value than the three-way moneyline.
Anytime Goal Scorer
You are betting a player to score at any point during regulation time. Some sportsbooks include extra time, but most do not unless specified.
Star forwards carry the shortest odds, but value often exists on penalty takers and attacking midfielders. Lineups matter heavily here, so many bettors wait until starting elevens are confirmed about one hour before kickoff.
This is one of the most popular markets during the World Cup because casual viewers recognize star players more than team tactics.
First or Last Goal Scorer
These wagers require predicting the exact scoring order. The first scorer hits before any other player scores, while last scorer hits on the final goal of regulation.
Odds are much higher than anytime scorer bets because timing matters as much as player selection. Substitutes and late match tactics make last goal scorer especially volatile.
These are high-variance bets typically used in small stakes or parlays.
Correct Score
You must predict the exact final score after regulation time. Even being off by one goal loses the wager.
Because soccer produces relatively few goals, sportsbooks offer large payouts compared to other sports. Many bettors cover multiple scorelines such as 1-0, 1-1, and 2-1 to reflect realistic outcomes.
Correct score betting is common in knockout rounds where matches tighten defensively.
Tournament Futures
Futures remain active throughout the entire tournament. Odds shift after every match based on performance and bracket path.
Common futures include World Cup winner, group winner, team to reach the final, Golden Boot, and Golden Ball awards. Early bettors aim for value before kickoff while late bettors react to matchups and injuries.
Unlike single match wagers, futures tie up bankroll for weeks but offer strong hedging opportunities later in the knockout stage.
Cards and Corners Props
These markets focus on match statistics instead of goals. Bettors can wager on total yellow cards, red cards, corners, and player shot totals.
Referee tendencies matter heavily for card betting, while possession style impacts corner counts. Aggressive teams and rivalry matches often produce higher card totals.
These props are popular among bettors who study matchups deeply and want alternatives to predicting winners.
How World Cup Betting Rules Work
Soccer betting rules differ from most American sports because sportsbooks often grade wagers after regulation time only. Many bettors assume a team that advances in a knockout match automatically wins the bet, but that is not always true.
Understanding when bets include extra time and penalties is essential before wagering on the World Cup.
Do World Cup Bets Include Extra Time?
Most standard wagers are graded after 90 minutes plus stoppage time only.
This includes:
- Match Result
- Correct Score
- Totals
- Both Teams to Score
- Most player props
If a match is tied after regulation and goes to extra time, these bets are already settled.
Example: France defeats Brazil in penalties after a 1-1 draw. A bet on France to win the match result loses because the regulation result was a draw.
What Bets Count After Penalties?
Certain markets include the full match outcome, including extra time and penalty shootouts.
These usually include:
- To Advance bets
- Tournament futures
- Outright winner bets
- Some special props labeled “including extra time”
If the bet says a team advances or wins the tournament, penalties count.
Why Bettors Accidentally Lose Winning Bets
The most common mistake is betting a favorite on the match result during knockout rounds. The team may advance but fail to win in regulation.
Many knockout matches finish level after 90 minutes because teams play cautiously to avoid elimination. This leads to bettors losing wagers even when their team eventually moves on.
When betting elimination games, many bettors use To Advance instead of Match Result to remove the draw risk.
When Sportsbooks Grade Bets Differently
Rules can vary slightly by sportsbook, especially for player props and specials. Some books include extra time for certain markets while others do not.
Always check the bet description before placing a wager. If extra time is included, it will usually be clearly labeled on the betting slip.
Understanding grading rules prevents confusion and helps bettors choose the correct market for knockout matches.
How World Cup Betting Odds Work
Soccer odds can look unfamiliar compared to point spread sports because matches have three possible outcomes and typically fewer scoring events. Sportsbooks price each outcome based on probability rather than expected margin of victory, which leads to tighter ranges and more balanced numbers.
Understanding how to read odds helps bettors compare value across teams and markets during the World Cup.
American Odds Format
Most U.S. sportsbooks display odds using the plus and minus format.
A minus number shows the favorite and how much you must risk to win $100.
Example: -150 means you risk $150 to profit $100.
A plus number shows the underdog and how much profit you make on a $100 bet.
Example: +220 means a $100 wager returns $220 in profit.
Because soccer includes draws, favorites rarely carry extremely large negative numbers compared to sports like football or basketball.
Why Draws Change the Odds
Every World Cup match has three outcomes: Team A win, Team B win, or Draw.
Probability is divided across all three options, which compresses the prices.
Instead of a heavy favorite at -300, you might see:
- Team A -125
- Draw +240
- Team B +320
The draw absorbs probability and keeps favorite prices smaller than bettors expect.
Decimal Odds
Many international bettors and statistics sites use decimal odds instead of American odds. Decimal odds show total payout instead of profit.
Example:
- 2.50 returns $250 on a $100 bet
- 1.80 returns $180 on a $100 bet
Decimal odds include your stake in the number, while American odds show profit only.
Implied Probability
Odds represent the sportsbook’s estimate of how often an outcome will occur.
Lower odds mean higher probability.
Higher odds mean lower probability.
Comparing odds between sportsbooks can reveal small pricing differences, which is why bettors often check multiple apps before placing wagers during the tournament.
World Cup Betting Strategy & Tips
The World Cup plays differently than domestic leagues. Teams are unfamiliar with each other, matches carry more pressure, and tournament incentives often matter more than raw talent. Because of this, common betting habits from league soccer or American sports do not always translate well.
Below are practical strategies bettors commonly use during international tournaments.
Expect Lower Scoring Early in the Tournament
Group stage matches often start cautiously. Teams prefer avoiding an opening loss rather than chasing a win, especially when they still have multiple matches remaining.
This frequently leads to slower tempo matches and fewer scoring chances. Totals and Both Teams To Score markets tend to lean under in the first round of group games compared to later stages.
Knockout Matches Produce More Draws
Elimination games reward patience. Teams rarely take risks late in matches because a single mistake ends their tournament.
Because of this, many knockout games reach extra time. Bettors often prefer To Advance instead of Match Result to avoid losing wagers on late equalizers.
Public Teams Are Often Overpriced
Popular national teams like Brazil, England, France, and Argentina attract heavy betting interest regardless of form. Sportsbooks adjust odds to account for public money, which can inflate favorites.
Underdogs and draw outcomes often carry more value than expected, particularly in early rounds where talent gaps are smaller than reputation suggests.
Follow Lineups Closely
International teams rotate players more than club teams due to short rest and travel. Star players are sometimes rested after qualification scenarios or before knockout rounds.
Starting lineups release about one hour before kickoff and frequently impact goal scorer and prop markets more than match odds.
Weather and Travel Matter
World Cup host cities can vary dramatically in climate and altitude. Teams not accustomed to heat, humidity, or elevation may slow the pace of play.
These conditions often affect totals and second half scoring more than match winners.
Hedge Futures During Knockout Rounds
Futures odds move quickly once the bracket forms. Bettors who placed early wagers can guarantee profit by betting the opponent in later rounds.
This strategy allows a bettor to lock in value instead of relying entirely on one team to win the tournament.
How to Choose the Best World Cup Betting Site
Different sportsbooks excel at different parts of the tournament. Some are better for long-term futures, others for daily match betting, and some focus on promotions. Choosing the right app depends on how you plan to bet on the World Cup.
Best for Futures World Cup Betting
bet365 is typically the strongest option for tournament futures. The sportsbook posts odds earlier than competitors and offers a wider range of markets such as group winners, advancement odds, and award betting throughout the tournament.
Best World Cup Betting Site for Promotions
BetMGM and DraftKings usually run the most frequent World Cup specials. BetMGM focuses on larger bonus offers and insurance style promos, while DraftKings tends to release rotating odds boosts and featured match promotions.
Best for Daily Match Betting
FanDuel works well for bettors placing wagers across multiple matches in one day. The clean layout makes it easy to find markets quickly without navigating through menus between games.
Best for Player Props
DraftKings and bet365 typically offer the deepest player markets, including shots, assists, and cards. These sportsbooks are useful for bettors targeting specific players rather than match outcomes.
Best for Real World Rewards and Perks
Fanatics Sportsbook emphasizes continuous rewards through its FanCash system. Bettors placing wagers throughout the tournament can accumulate value over multiple matches rather than relying on a single bonus.
Caesars Sportsbook is another strong option in this category thanks to its casino rewards ecosystem. With Caesars Rewards, you can book stays at Caesars properties, dining experiences, and more, in addition to bonus bets.
How FOX Sports Evaluates Betting Sites
FOX Sports reviews betting apps using the same editorial approach applied to event coverage and analysis. For the FIFA World Cup, our writers monitor regulated U.S. sportsbooks throughout the tournament, tracking odds availability, market depth, usability, and pricing consistency across matches.
We consider how each sportsbook performs during real betting situations, including live matches, lineup changes, and knockout round scenarios. Promotions are evaluated for practicality and repeat value, not just headline size.
Recommendations are updated as markets and offers change so readers can make informed decisions across every stage of the competition.
Responsible Gambling
Sports betting should be entertaining and done in moderation. Only wager what you can afford to lose and avoid chasing losses. Setting time and deposit limits can help keep betting a recreational activity rather than a financial decision.
If gambling stops being fun or begins affecting your daily life, help is available. Support services are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day.
Responsible gambling resources:
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER
- National Council on Problem Gambling: https://www.ncpgambling.org
- 1-800-GAMBLER Support Portal: https://www.1800gambler.net
- Gamblers Anonymous: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org
- Gam-Anon (support for family and friends): https://www.gam-anon.org
You must be 21 or older to place a sports wager in most states. Availability varies by location, and all promotions are subject to sportsbook terms and conditions.
